What to do before approaching the ACA

[BuggyRider]

So I had a bad experience over the weekend with the airline not delivering my baggage. I traveled, on a Friday, for a sporting event and had all the uniforms and equipment in my luggage. For an undisclosed reason, the airline did not send the baggage with the passengers. A form was filled out but contact was not made. I had to borrow equipment from the local players to participate.
I approached the baggage people at the airport on my way to check-in for my return flight on Monday, and yes, my bag was there. The whole purpose of the journey was nullified by the lack of baggage.
What is the process for seeking compensation from the airline - I guess this process will be different for each airline, but they seem to try to obfuscate the process so people just give up.
I would like to see a process laid out clearly so that my frustration level does not continue to build in trying navigate the phone system and/or the website.

 

[opusman]

Unless your baggage has actually been lost they won't pay you any compensation. If you make a big enough fuss they might offer you some FF points but otherwise there's not much point. Doubt the ACA will be able to do anything.

 

[theblank]

I would like to see a process laid out clearly so that my frustration level does not continue to build in trying navigate the phone system and/or the website.

Most companies have a complaints policy on their website, so follow that.
Or simply write them a letter, detailing the facts and the outcome you want, Do not use any emotion.

Finally, this is usualy the sort of thing insurers cover. did you have travel insurance?
you probably did if you paid for your tickets with a credit card

 

[trooper]

But what "loss" would the OP be claiming from an insurer? No baggage or equipment was lost....and the OP still participated in the comp (not that I can see what any insurance company would pay out for NOT doing so...maybe if the trip had been abandoned due to baggage non arrival? Short of that I simply don't see what the OP can expect OTHER than - as mentioned upthread- some miles as an apology of sorts)

Buggyrider…. what do YOU think you should be compensated for, and how? I ask "what" because you say the trip was "nullified" but you DID still compete...

 

[MEL_Traveller]

I had to borrow equipment from the local players to participate.

The whole purpose of the journey was nullified by the lack of baggage.

Unfortunately these two statement are inconsistent. Which doesn't make yuor case as strong.

At the time of the delayed bag you should have reached out to ask what cover the airline would provide to replace essential items you needed.